Teen Prodigy
At just 13, Azeer Malik from Srinagar transforms curiosity into code, inspiring Kashmiri youth through technology and self-learning
✍️ News Desk : SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 28٫ SRINAGAR, Dec 28: At a time when smartphones are often blamed for distracting teenagers, a 13-year-old boy from Srinagar has rewritten the narrative by turning his mobile device into a powerful instrument of learning, creativity, and innovation.Azeer Malik, a Class 9 student from Saidpora Eidgah in Srinagar, has emerged as one of the youngest self-taught tech innovators in Jammu and Kashmir. Through dedication and relentless curiosity, Azeer has successfully developed 31 mobile applications, including websites, utility-based apps, and artificial intelligence-powered chatbots—an achievement that stands out remarkably for his age.Azeer’s journey into the digital world began in 2021, when a simple curiosity about how applications function behind the screen sparked a deeper interest. Watching a close family acquaintance work on app development further motivated him to explore coding independently.“I was always curious about how things work in the background,” Azeer said. “That curiosity pushed me to learn everything on my own.”Without any formal institutional training, Azeer relied entirely on online resources. YouTube tutorials, digital learning platforms, and advanced online courses became his classroom. Over the years, he has completed more than a dozen online certifications related to web development, mobile applications, and emerging technologies.“The initial phase was difficult,” he recalled. “Some concepts were complicated, especially at a young age, but my interest in technology kept me going.”He began his practical journey by creating small-scale applications for hotels and vehicle services, mainly focusing on booking systems and operational management. These early projects helped him gain hands-on experience and confidence. Several of his hotel-related applications are currently under verification and are expected to go live on app stores soon.Influenced by the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and tools like ChatGPT, Azeer expanded his work into chatbot development. So far, he has created at least seven chatbots, ranging from basic conversational tools to more utility-driven digital assistants.“Artificial Intelligence is the future,” he said. “I wanted to understand how it works and how it can be used to help people in real life.”One of Azeer’s most ambitious ideas is the development of a zero-commission digital platform, aimed at supporting small businesses and young entrepreneurs.“The concept is simple—no commission, no hidden charges. The platform should help ordinary people and small operators grow online, not burden them,” he explained.Speaking about the social challenges faced by youth in Kashmir, Azeer stressed the importance of using technology constructively.“Many young people are glued to their phones, and some fall into harmful habits like drug abuse. If the same phones are used to learn skills and build something meaningful, technology can become a blessing,” he said.Among his major upcoming projects is FreeVence, currently available in a web-based format, with a full mobile application launch expected soon. The platform aims to enable users to buy and sell digital assets while monetising their online skills.“If someone has a digital skill—whether design, coding, or any online service—FreeVence will help them earn from it,” Azeer added.Behind his growing success is a strong support system. Azeer credits his parents, particularly his mother and father, for standing by him throughout his journey. Friends have also played a key role by encouraging him to keep experimenting and learning.Looking ahead, Azeer aspires to pursue higher technical education at one of India’s premier IITs. He is also keen on sharing his knowledge with others. Currently, he is working on an AI-based online video editing application that will allow users to edit videos using simple text prompts.“It will make video editing easy and accessible for everyone,” he said.For Azeer Malik, coding is not merely about writing software it is about creating opportunities, generating livelihoods, and proving that innovation knows no age.
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